5 Reasons to attend the Whistler Film Festival

The 12th annual Whistler Film Festival, November 28 to December 2, features everything you'd expect in a world-class film festival, from Gala premieres of brave new work to an industry forum. Check out 5 reasons to head to Whistler for this year's Film Festival below.

This year's line-up rocks

Diversity of programming has always been one of WFF's strengths and this year follows that traditions. The innovative British document series 7Up, which has chronicled the lives of these Britons since 1969, returns to the big screen with 56up. Meanwhile Keira Knightly gives the performance of her career in the lead role in Anna Karenina, while ski jumper Lindsey Van's fight for gender equality in Olympic sport gets examined in the doc Ready to Fly. And these are just three of the more than 75 films that will be presented over the four-day festival.

Galas are fun

It's true. Galas are fun. You get a little dressed up, have a glass of champagne or two, rub shoulders with genuine filmmakers and take part in a film premiere. What's not to like? The WFF opening night gala features the western Canadian premiere of Still, by Michael McGowan who opened the festival in 1998 with the road movie, One Week. (Note: The pre-flick reception is always nice.) The closing gala night gala marks the world premiere of The Sheepdogs Have it, a documentary about a group of Saskatoon rockers who were the first band on the cover of Rollingstone Magazine.

Its affordable entertainment

A complete Platinum Pass that entitles you to access any of the festival screenings, attend the Opening Reception and Gala, Filmmaker Tributes & Award Brunch and the Closing Gala can be had until November 28 for $300. Individual screening tickets are available for between $10 and $12. There are also a variety of other ticket packages available on line.

Being the first to see it

This year there are six films making their world premier, including a biography of Canadian folk icon Bruce Cockburn. Bird Media Co. a documentary about how birds are being exploited to fly advertising banners in Mumbai, and the long-awaited comedy The Movie Out There that's all about leading a glacier fresh life in Beautiful BC. Seeing any of these films will increase your hip factor by at least 10%.

You can learn about industry trends

The Whistler Summit is back this year, featuring keynote talks, panels and one-on-one meetings with industry insiders. If you're someone just trying to break into the business or a proven producer looking to expand your network, this parallel forum offers many exciting opportunities for film and TV professionals.

Looking for Last-Minute Accommodations for the Whistler Film Festival?

Choose from our three condominum style hotels, located in Whistler's Creekside Village. Take advantage of the wonderful winter weather Whistler has been getting and book you're trip this weekend.